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Names that Peaked in 1963

  1. Lissa

    • Origin:

      African, Arabic mythological name; diminutive of Melissa, Greek

    • Meaning:

      "honeybee"

    • Description:

      Lissa might be an abbreviation of Melissa, but it's more substantial in its own right: Lissa is the name of a supreme mother goddess in African mythology and an Arabic symbol of rebirth.
  2. Kris

    • Origin:

      Short form of Kristof or Kristofer

    • Meaning:

      "Christian"

    • Description:

      Many European cultures spell Christopher with a K and thus the short form Kris. There were about 35 baby boys named Kris, just Kris, in the US last year, and only a handful of baby girls -- this after the name ranking in the Top 1000 for both genders from the late 1940s through the 1970s. However you spell it, it's an appealing name that's in a slump right now because of overexposure. It's also one of the original gender neutral names, paving the way for a new way of thinking about names and gender.
  3. Rob

    • Origin:

      English, diminutive of Robert

    • Meaning:

      "bright fame"

    • Description:

      Rob has claimed Bob's turf.
  4. Maury

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Maurice

    • Meaning:

      "dark skinned"

    • Description:

      Old-man name, soft as a fraying gray cashmere cardigan, that would be even cuter for a girl.
  5. Sherri

    • Description:

      Sherri is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Sharon or Sheridan. With Hebrew roots, it connects to Sharon, meaning 'a fertile plain' in ancient Israel. Popular during the 1950s through the 1970s in the United States, Sherri reached its peak in 1962, reflecting the mid-century preference for friendly, accessible names ending in 'i' or 'y.' The name has a warm, approachable quality that evokes the optimistic spirit of its heyday. Though less common for newborns today, Sherri maintains a clear identity and unpretentious charm. The name's simple spelling and pronunciation give it an straightforward appeal, while its vintage quality connects it to a specific cultural moment in American naming traditions.
  6. Jeanmarie

    • Origin:

      English combination of Jean and Marie

    • Meaning:

      "god is gracious + drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"

    • Description:

      Rather dated smoosh name.
  7. Glynis

    • Origin:

      Welsh

    • Meaning:

      "small glen, valley"

    • Description:

      The feminine version of the common Welsh name Glyn became somewhat known in this country via the charming Welsh actress Glynis Johns. Variations include Glenys and Glynys. With other Welsh names--Gwyneth, Bronwyn, Bryn, Griffith--now on the American table, Glynis could make a distinctive tribute to an Uncle Glenn.
  8. Jonna

    • Origin:

      Scandinavian variation of Johanna

    • Meaning:

      "God is gracious"

    • Description:

      A Scandinavian short form of Johanna, properly pronounced with a Y sound at the start, but would likely be read as the more prosaic "John-a" in an English-speaking context.
  9. Reinaldo

    • Origin:

      Spanish and Portuguese variation of Reginald

    • Description:

      This lively Spanish and Portuguese form of Reginald/Reynold is especially popular in Brazil. In the US, the Reynaldo spelling has always been significantly more popular, though Reinaldo is also used occasionally, mostly in Hispanic communities
  10. Deidre

    • Description:

      Deidre is a feminine name derived from the Irish name Deirdre, associated with a tragic heroine in Irish mythology. The legendary Deirdre of the Sorrows was known for her extraordinary beauty and tragic fate in the Ulster Cycle of Irish legends. The name possibly comes from Celtic elements meaning 'woman' or 'fear.' Deidre, this alternative spelling, gained popularity in English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century. The name peaked in usage during the 1960s and 1970s in the United States but has since declined. Deidre carries an air of Celtic mystique and literary depth, offering a connection to ancient Irish heritage with a slightly modernized spelling.

  11. Nannette

    • Description:

      Nannette is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Anne, ultimately derived from the Hebrew Hannah, meaning 'grace.' This charming variation emerged in medieval France, where adding the diminutive suffix '-ette' created a more endearing, youthful version of the original name. Nannette gained modest popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1940s and 1950s. The name has a delicate, vintage quality that evokes images of French countryside and classic femininity. While less common today, Nannette offers the friendly nickname options of 'Nan' or 'Nettie.' The name carries associations with daintiness and refinement, balancing a formal quality with approachable warmth. Its distinctive spelling with doubled letters adds visual interest to this sweet, timeless name.
  12. Brien

    • Description:

      Brien is a masculine name of Irish and Celtic origin, a variant of the more common Brian. Derived from the Old Celtic element 'bre' meaning 'hill' or the Old Irish 'brigh' meaning 'high, noble, strong.' This name has deep historical roots in Irish culture, where Brian Boru was a renowned High King of Ireland in the early 11th century. Brien offers a slightly distinctive spelling of the classic, maintaining the strong, reliable character while standing apart. Though less common than Brian or Bryan, it shares their appeal as a name suggesting strength and dignity. Brien has maintained a steady if modest presence in English-speaking countries, particularly among families with Irish heritage who appreciate its cultural connections.
  13. Alesia

    • Description:

      Alesia is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from the Greek name Alexia, meaning 'defender' or 'helper,' or it could relate to the ancient Gaulish city of Alesia, site of a famous battle where Julius Caesar defeated Vercingetorix. Some also connect it to Alice or Adelaide. The name has a gentle, melodious quality that has contributed to its modest popularity in various European countries and the United States since the mid-20th century. Alesia peaked in popularity in America during the 1970s but has since become less common, giving it a distinctive vintage charm today. The name's international appeal lies in its pleasant sound and adaptability across different languages and cultures.
  14. Merri

    • Description:

      Merri is a feminine name that serves as a diminutive or variation of Meredith, Mary, or Meryl. Its spelling with an 'i' ending gives it a cheerful, bright quality that aligns with its phonetic similarity to the word 'merry,' meaning happy or joyful. The name has Welsh origins when derived from Meredith, meaning 'great lord' or 'sea lord,' though its connection to Mary would give it Hebrew roots meaning 'bitter' or 'beloved.' Merri has never been among the most popular names in the United States but enjoyed some usage particularly in the mid-20th century. It has a friendly, approachable quality that appeals to parents seeking a name that feels warm and unpretentious. The name's brevity and positive connotations make it an endearing choice with vintage charm.

  15. Johnna

    • Description:

      Johnna is a feminine variation of John, itself derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning "God is gracious." This modern adaptation maintains the strength of the original while adding a distinctly feminine ending. Though less common than other John derivatives like Joanna or Joan, Johnna has maintained a steady presence in the United States since the mid-20th century. The name peaked in popularity during the 1970s but remains an appealing choice for parents seeking a unique name with traditional roots. Johnna offers the nickname options of Jo or Jonna, and its biblical connection provides it with a sense of timelessness while still feeling contemporary.

  16. Stoney

    • Description:

      Stoney is a masculine name with English origins, derived from the word 'stone' with the addition of the diminutive suffix '-ey.' Originally a surname or nickname for someone who lived near a stone structure or had a particularly firm disposition, it evolved into an occasional given name. Stoney evokes qualities of strength, durability, and steadfastness—characteristics associated with stone itself. While uncommon as a first name, it has maintained modest usage particularly in rural American communities. The name has a rugged, earthy quality that appeals to parents seeking nature-inspired names with a masculine edge. Stoney also carries associations with resilience and unwavering character, making it an appealing choice for those valuing these traits.
  17. Loriann

    • Description:

      Loriann is a feminine name combining elements of the popular names Lori (a diminutive of Laura or Lorraine) and Ann. This compound construction became particularly popular in mid-20th century America, reflecting a trend toward creating unique names from familiar elements. Lori derives ultimately from Latin 'laurus' meaning 'laurel tree,' a symbol of victory, while Ann comes from Hebrew Hannah, meaning 'grace.' The name saw its peak usage in the 1960s and 1970s, though it never reached high rankings on popularity charts. Loriann offers a familiar feel while maintaining some distinctiveness through its combined structure. The name has a pleasant rhythm and accessible pronunciation, balancing traditional elements with a somewhat more personalized feel than either of its component names alone.
  18. Dwane

    • Description:

      Dwane is a masculine name that represents a variant spelling of Dwayne or Duane, which originated from the Irish Gaelic name Dubhán, meaning "dark" or "black-haired." This particular spelling with a single "y" gives the name a slightly more streamlined look while maintaining its traditional pronunciation. Dwane gained moderate recognition in America during the mid-20th century but has never been among the most popular names. The name carries a strong, straightforward quality with its single syllable and distinctive sound. Dwane may appeal to parents seeking a name with Celtic roots and a contemporary feel. While less common than Dwayne, this spelling variation maintains the name's masculine energy and simple charm while offering a subtle point of distinction.

  19. Lorie

    • Description:

      Lorie is a feminine name with multiple origins, primarily functioning as a diminutive of names like Lorraine, Lorelei, or Laura. Derived from Latin 'laurus' meaning 'laurel tree' (a symbol of victory), the name carries connotations of achievement and honor. Lorie enjoyed notable popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, representing the trend toward friendly, approachable feminine names ending in 'ie.' In France, the name gained visibility through the French pop singer Lorie Pester. With its soft sounds and uncomplicated spelling, Lorie balances familiarity with a touch of sweetness. While less common for newborns today, it maintains an enduring charm and accessibility across various cultural contexts.
  20. Greggory

    • Description:

      Greggory is a variant spelling of Gregory, a masculine name with ancient Greek origins. Derived from 'gregorios,' meaning 'watchful' or 'alert,' the name has a rich historical legacy. While Gregory has been consistently popular throughout Western history—particularly due to numerous popes, saints, and notable figures bearing the name—the Greggory spelling variation is less common. This alternative spelling emerged primarily in the mid-20th century, offering a slightly distinctive take on the classic name. Greggory peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1970s but has since declined. The name maintains the strong, traditional qualities of Gregory while standing out with its unique spelling.

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